Russia's Hidden Agenda in Central African Republic Disguised as Cultural Aid

The Central African Republic serves as a pilot project for the Kremlin in shaping Russia's African policy. This was confirmed in a conversation with DW by the head of the Russian cultural center in Bangui Dmitry Sytyi, who is linked to the Wagner Group .

Dmitry Sytyi, a 35-year-old marketer and economist, leads the "Russian House" in Bangui, presented as a cultural and educational center. Sytyi discusses Russian language courses and cultural events, but is considered a key figure in Wagner's leadership, with influence extending beyond culture, reports DW. Before its involvement in Russia’s war against Ukraine, Wagner operated in Libya, Sudan, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.

In 2018, the Kremlin deepened ties with Central African Republic (CAR) by signing a defense agreement, enabling the Wagner Group to strengthen its presence. Wagner mercenaries supplied weapons, trained the Central African army, and ensured the security of President Faustin-Archange Touadéra.

When discussing Wagner’s founder Yevgeny Prigozhin, who died in a plane crash in August 2023 under mysterious circumstances after a rebellion, Sytyi said, “We continue what he started,” reports DW.

After Prigozhin's death, Wagner units were formally placed under Russian military intelligence and the Ministry of Defense, forming part of an "African Corps."

Sytyi refrained from commenting on allegations that Russian leader Vladimir Putin ordered Prigozhin’s death, calling it a significant loss for Africa and CAR. He described Africa as "the continent of the future," asserting that Russia's policy aims to "help CAR" through humanitarian initiatives, while downplaying its strategic interests, according to DW. However, he acknowledges occasionally conducting other "disarmament missions" with armed groups in Central Africa on behalf of President Touadera.

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Notably, in exchange for these services, Russia secured profitable mining concessions, granting Wagner access to valuable resources like gold and diamonds. Daily Beast journalist Philip Obagi, who investigated mining in conflict regions, expressed concerns over Russia’s unpunished control over mines in CAR.

"What bothers me about the Russians and their approach in CAR is the fact that they want to act with such impunity and take mines by any means necessary," said Obagi.

Sytyi denies allegations of human rights violations against former Wagner militants, dismissing them as Western propaganda. According to security expert Beverly Ochieng, Sytyi’s position at the cultural center allows him significant political sway over government negotiations.

The planned Russian military base in Berengo is another sign of Moscow’s aim to expand influence across Africa. “The Central African Republic is a pilot project for Russia’s new African policy,” Sytyi told DW.